Regional

3:16 pm

Sat October 5, 2013

Texas Tops In Gun Purchase Applications

Texas leads the nation in the number of people seeking federal permission to buy guns.

Federal statistics show 1.2 million people in Texas so far this year have filled out applications for background checks. At that rate, last year's record 1.4 million requests will be surpassed by the end of 2013.

Would-be purchasers from a federally licensed dealer must apply with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Criminal convictions, dishonorable military discharges or renouncing their citizenship can get a buyer rejected.